A Guide to London's Best Vintage Shopping

A Guide to London's Best Vintage Shopping

London is home to some of the best second-hand clothing stores in the world. No matter whereabouts you’re staying in the city, you’ll be a short tube journey away from sourcing some seriously trendy and affordable vintage fashion. So, where should you head first?

Luckily for you, when you stay with Marlin Apartments, we’re located close to some of the best vintage shopping locations London has to offer. From the famous hot spots to the hidden gems that only locals like us know about, here’s our guide to finding the best sartorial bargains in the capital:

Brick Lane

Shoreditch’s most famous street, Brick Lane is always heaving with vintage shoppers. The many independent shops which line the street sell everything from vintage Burberry macs to fur coats and antique brooches, while at the bustling outdoor flea market you’ll find furniture, bric-a-brac and trinkets galore. Shoreditch is the vintage Mecca you need to visit first.

Where to head?

The well-known vintage shops like Beyond Retro and Absolute Vintage are all there, with less well known treasures such as The Vintage Emporium and The Shop, located on Bacon Road, just a right turn away.

Camden

Camden Town is as famous for its vintage shops as it is the picturesque locks and Amy Winehouse. With a real mix of both popular vintage chains, trendy boutiques and independent traders, it’s a real wonderland for doing some quality vintage shopping. There’s something for everyone, no matter what your style is.

Where to head?

Head to Episode for high quality vintage pieces you won’t find anywhere else, and be sure to devote as much time to the stalls in the indoor market as outdoor, as here’s where you’ll find the hidden gems. A top tip for heading to Camden is to go early as possible to beat the crowds and definitely avoid Saturday afternoons when this vintage dreamland is at its busiest.

Our Top Picks

Waterloo

Vintage shopping in Waterloo is less frequent than in other areas, but there is a must visit shop that you have to sift through that’s famous for its one-off pieces and amazing accessories range.

Where to head?

Head to Radio Days on Lower Marsh, where you’ll discover an exciting array of vintage clothes, accessories and homeware pieces, with rare finds dating all the way back to the 1920s. It’s a real vintage lover’s paradise, so be prepared to discover some unique treats, from luxurious furs to antique jewellery.

The Docklands

If you’re staying at Marlin Limehouse then you’re in luck. There’s a number of amazing vintage shops to explore on your doorstep, with a range of great vintage shops and boutiques within walking distance of the apartments.

Where to head?

East End Thrift Store, Closet London and East End Vintage Clothing are all within easy reach of the apartments, stocking affordable vintage clothing and accessories from around the world. Some one-of-a-kind finds are waiting to be uncovered at these vintage giants.

Central London

If you’re a vintage enthusiast staying at our serviced apartments based in central London, then you’re in for a real treat with endless options to choose from. It’s in the central shops where you’ll have a higher chance of finding the one-off designer pieces, so be prepared to hunt through the moth-eaten glad-rags to uncover your dream designer dress.

Where to head?

If you want to head to Soho to raid the racks in well-known stores like Rokit Vintage and Beyond Retro, or discover the fancy threads you’ll find in Wow Retro London in Covent Garden, you’ll find handpicked pieces in great condition wherever you choose to shop for vintage clothes in central London. A top tip is to speak to the assistants and ask if there’s anything in particular you’re looking for, as they might have it hiding in the back.

With so many vintage treasures to raid in the capital, with our guide you’ll be avoiding the crowds of Oxford Street in favour of rooting through the bargain baskets of London’s incredible vintage stores in no time. As one of the most fashionable cities in the world, London’s vintage shopping scene has a global reputation. So, you’ll be sure to find some iconic pieces from brands across the globe to spice up your style no matter which Marlin Apartments it is you’re staying at.